Targeted Screw Talar Dome Fixation Implant
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current total ankle replacement methods face challenges in securely anchoring implants to bones due to the need for precise hole formation and bone resection, which can be painful and invasive, and existing solutions do not adequately mimic the natural range of motion of the ankle joint.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a bone implant with a flange and targeted screw holes, along with a drill guide, that allows for secure anchoring of the implant to the bone using targeted screws, mimicking the natural articulation surfaces of the ankle joint and facilitating a more precise and less invasive installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hole drilling and bone resection methods are used for implant installation, then the implant can be anchored to the bone, but the procedure becomes more invasive and causes more pain
Solution Approach 1:
The drill guide is designed to pre-establish the exact trajectory and positioning of screw holes before implant installation. The guide includes a positioning element that fits into a recess on the implant, allowing the desired screw hole locations to be predetermined and marked before the actual drilling occurs, thus minimizing invasive procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The drill guide acts as an intermediary tool between the implant and the drilling operation. It includes a positioning element that couples to the implant and a guide element that directs the drill bit, mediating the interaction to ensure precise hole formation without requiring extensive bone resection
2Manufacturing precision
If precise hole formation is required for implant anchoring, then the implant can be securely attached to the bone, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The drill guide serves as a mediating device that simplifies the complex task of achieving precise hole positioning. It includes a positioning element with a recess that receives a corresponding protrusion on the implant, and a guide element with a drill passage that directs the drill bit along the correct trajectory, making the installation process more straightforward
Solution Approach 2:
The drill guide is designed to self-align with the implant through the positioning element's recess and protrusion interface. This self-aligning mechanism automatically ensures correct positioning without requiring complex external alignment procedures or multiple adjustment steps
3Reliability
If traditional ankle replacement methods are used, then the joint can be replaced, but the natural range of motion is not adequately mimicked
Solution Approach 1:
The drill guide is designed with specific geometric features that correspond to the anatomical requirements of the ankle joint. The guide passage is angled and positioned to accommodate the natural range of motion of the talus bone, allowing the implant to function more like the natural joint while maintaining structural integrity
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4B
Figure 5A~7
AI summary
A bone implant is disclosed. The implant comprises a body having a bone contact surface and an articulation surface. A first flange extends longitudinally from the bone contact surface. The flange defines a first screw hole configured to receive a targeted screw therethrough. The targeted screw couples the implant to a bone.